Accra, Nov. 6, GNA - Joseph Kwabena Dawson, owner of the MV Benjamin, which was used to ship 77 parcels of cocaine into the country, denied knowledge of ever knowing that his vessel was going to be used to cart cocaine.
He was further answering questions under cross-examination at the fast Track High Court in Accra when prosecution suggested to him that he knew very well what the purpose of the vessel was intended to transport cocaine.
Dawson, also the Managing Director of Dashment Company Limited told the court that Sheriff Asem Dakey a.k.a Limping Man takes the full responsibility of the vessel, including the supply of water, electricity, fuel as well as crew.
Dawson could not answer questions posed by Mrs. Stella Badu, Senior State Attorney about the chartered agreement form, an exhibit he (Dawson) presented to court.
"Why you are finding difficulties in answering from the documents you presented to the court"?
"I suggest to you that you hurriedly prepared these documents when the vessel was arrested"
But Dawson answered in the negative. However, his counsel, Mr. D.K Ameley objected to it and said "My Lord, this is harassment'.
Dawson is standing trial with four crew members for the various roles they played in importing the 77 parcels of cocaine on board MV Benjamin.
They are: Isaac Arhin, a 49 year-old sailor, Philip Kobina Bruce Arhin, a 47 year-old mechanic, Cui Xing Li, a 44 year-old Chinese sailor and Luo Yin Xing, a 49 year-old sailor are also on trial. Isaac Arhin, Philip Arhin, Cui and Luo are charged for possessing narcotic drugs without authority and engaging in prohibited business. Park and Dawson are facing the charge of engaging in prohibited business relating to narcotics.
They have pleaded not guilty and are in Police custody. Dawson explained that he met Sheriff personally on the day of the signing of the chartered agreement and later at Rozo spot, a drinking spot at Tema Community three, adding, "that was where I met Sheriff". But prosecution insisted, "you knew that the vessel was leaving the port and going to carry cocaine, and to receive your share payment after it had been sold".
But Dawson, debunked it saying, "No my Lord'. The case was adjourned to November 15.
